I don't generally like ghost stories but this is a fabulous book which draws on classic tropes of children's literature while being dynamic, quirky and knowing - perfect for the sophisticated young readers today.

Matilda Lockett is used to creating ghostly goings-on for her aunt and uncle - the hoax is a business opportunity for Valentina and Barnabus, and Matilda plays a vital role in their success.

When the trio is invited to the reputedly haunted Beauchamp Manor, Matilda discovers she really can see ghosts and soon befriends ghost boy Edgar Wilde. Together Matilda and Edgar seek to solve the mystery behind the spooky events at the manor. 

This is the first in a series of adventures for Matilda and Edgar. It was recommended to me by Sophie Green, the author of the brilliant 'Potkin and Stubbs' trilogy.

It's a wonderful read, full of humour, with great characters and a real sense of nostalgia for a bygone age. What's more, there are the most glorious illustrations by Pam Smy who will be speaking to Sophie at next weekend's Ipswich Book Festival.

The book is the complete package, pushing the boundaries in a number of ways. There are occasional speech bubbles in drawings of the characters which move the story along with dialogue. And there's a section of double page illustrations presenting the night-time events.

While I'm not so keen on the supernatural premise for Aunt Valentina and Uncle Barnabus, this is a fantastic book. Loved it!